Paisanos: winter 2026 program and vehicle permits

Héroes Paisanos winter 2026 operationOfficial source

The special winter operation runs from 25 November 2026 to 8 January 2027.

Paying with someone else's card only during Paisano periodsOfficial source

Only during Héroes Paisanos periods can the importer pay with a card in another person's name; at other times the card must be in the importer's name.

Permit length for Mexicans living abroadOfficial source

Up to 180 days of actual stay with multiple entries, within 12 months of the first entry; one vehicle per 12-month period.

ID documents for Mexicans living abroad (including dual nationals)Official source

They must prove residence abroad with a green card, a non-Mexican passport, a US Passport Card, or a work visa valid for one year or more. A Mexican dual national uses the foreign document.

Who may drive (Mexicans living abroad)Official source

The importer, spouse, parents, children or siblings if they are permanent residents abroad, or a foreigner with visitor or temporary-resident status. Anyone else only with the importer on board.

US-plated vehicle: proof of ownershipOfficial source

Title or current registration; if financed, a credit contract in the importer's name dated within three months; if leased, the lease plus a letter from the leasing company.

Getting the permit at a Mexican consulate in the USOfficial source

Available by appointment at 10 consulates (Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Dallas, San Bernardino, Sacramento, Austin, Phoenix, Albuquerque, Denver), up to 6 months before travel. Consulates cannot cancel permits. Oklahoma City does not offer it.

2026 duty-free allowanceOfficial source

$500 USD

In 2026 the duty-free allowance is 500 US dollars per person, on top of personal baggage.

No middlemenOfficial source

The permit is only issued through Banjercito; no agent or third party should charge for it, and appointments are free.